Impact-attenuation members with lateral and shear force stability and products containing such members

ABSTRACT

Impact-attenuation members include: (a) an impact-attenuating member and (b) a shear resistant member engaged with the impact-attenuating member. Another example impact-attenuation member includes a shear resistant member having a continuous wall that bulges outward on opposing sides when in an uncompressed base orientation. The shear resistant members may be structured and arranged to allow bending or compression against impact forces in one direction (e.g., when landing a step or a jump), but remain highly stable against shear or lateral forces in another direction (e.g., in a side-to-side direction). Such impact-attenuation members may be used in footwear products, including in athletic footwear.

RELATED APPLICATION DATA

This application is a continuation application of U.S. Ser. No.12/825,942, filed Jun. 29, 2010, which is a divisional of U.S. Ser. No.11/422,137, filed Jun. 5, 2006, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,757,410, issued Jul.20, 2010, which relates, at least in part, to the subject matterdescribed in U.S. Pat. No. 7,314,125, issued Jan. 1, 2008, and U.S. Pat.No. 7,458,172, issued Dec. 2, 2008. Each of these patents is entirelyincorporated herein by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The invention relates generally to impact-attenuation members. Suchmembers may be provided in a wide variety of different products, e.g.,in footwear products and other foot-receiving devices, such as in theheel and/or toe areas of footwear or foot-receiving device products.

BACKGROUND

Conventional articles of athletic footwear have included two primaryelements, namely an upper member and a sole structure. The upper memberprovides a covering for the foot that securely receives and positionsthe foot with respect to the sole structure. In addition, the uppermember may have a configuration that protects the foot and providesventilation, thereby cooling the foot and removing perspiration. Thesole structure generally is secured to a lower portion of the uppermember and generally is positioned between the foot and the ground. Inaddition to attenuating ground or other contact surface reaction forces,the sole structure may provide traction and control foot motions, suchas pronation. Accordingly, the upper member and sole structure operatecooperatively to provide a comfortable structure that is suited for avariety of ambulatory activities, such as walking and running.

The sole structure of athletic footwear generally exhibits a layeredconfiguration that includes a comfort-enhancing insole, a resilientmidsole formed from a polymer foam material, and a ground-contactingoutsole that provides both abrasion-resistance and traction. The midsoleis the primary sole structure element that attenuates ground reactionforces and controls foot motions. Suitable polymer foam materials forthe midsole include ethylvinylacetate or polyurethane that compressresiliently under an applied load to attenuate ground reaction forces.

SUMMARY

Aspects of this invention relate to impact-attenuation members andproducts in which they are used (such as footwear, other foot-receivingdevices, and the like). In at least some examples, impact-attenuationmembers in accordance with at least some example aspects of thisinvention may include: (a) an impact-attenuating member (e.g., made ofphylon, phylite, polyurethane, or ethylvinylacetate foams); and (b) ashear resistant member engaged with the impact-attenuating member (insome examples, the shear resistant member may include a rigid material(such as a thermoplastic or other plastic material)). The shearresistant member may be designed, structured, and positioned so as toallow bending or compression against impact forces in a first direction(e.g., in the direction of landing a step or a jump, in substantially avertical direction, etc.) and is stable against shear forces in a seconddirection different from the first direction (e.g., in a side-to-sidedirection, in substantially a horizontal direction, etc.). Theimpact-attenuating member and/or the shear resistant member may beselected and/or oriented so as to provide a desired, controlled degreeof bending or compression in the first direction.

Another example impact-attenuation member in accordance with thisinvention includes a shear resistant member having a continuous wallmember that bulges outward on opposing sides when in an uncompressedbase orientation. This wall member may define an opening between theopposing sides, wherein the wall member bends against impact forces in afirst direction (e.g., in a substantially vertical direction, in thedirection of landing a step or jump, etc.) and is stable against shearforces in a second direction different from the first direction (e.g.,in a substantial lateral, side-to-side direction, in a substantiallyhorizontal direction, etc.). The wall member may be a rigid material,such as a rigid thermoplastic material or the like. Optionally, ifdesired, the impact-attenuation member further may include a restrainingmember at least partially surrounding the shear resistant member, e.g.,to limit bending of the wall member in response to the impact forces, toassist in restoring the wall member toward the base orientation afterthe impact forces are relaxed or removed, to prevent exposure to dirt ordebris, etc.

Still other aspects of this invention relate to foot-receiving deviceproducts, such as articles of footwear including athletic footwear, thatinclude impact-attenuation members, e.g., of the types described above.Additional aspects of this invention relate to methods of makingfootwear or other foot-receiving device products includingimpact-attenuation members in accordance with examples of thisinvention, as well as to methods of using such foot-receiving deviceproducts and/or impact-attenuation members, e.g., for attenuatingcontact surface reaction forces and providing lateral stability. Suchmethods may include constructing an article of footwear or otherfoot-receiving device product to include one or more impact-attenuationmembers according to the invention between the upper member and theoutsole structure (e.g., as part of the sole structure). Onceincorporated in the footwear or other product structure, the article offootwear or other product may be used in its known and conventionalmanner, and the impact-attenuation member will attenuate the ground orcontact surface reaction forces (e.g., from landing a step or jump)while also resisting shear or lateral movement or failure of theimpact-attenuation member (e.g., during direction changes, cuttingactions, quick stops, and the like).

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

A more complete understanding of the present invention and certainadvantages thereof may be acquired by referring to the followingdescription in consideration with the accompanying drawings, in whichlike reference numbers indicate like features, and wherein:

FIGS. 1A through 1D illustrate an example impact-attenuation memberstructure in accordance with this invention;

FIGS. 2A through 2C illustrate another example impact-attenuation memberstructure in accordance with this invention;

FIGS. 3A through 3C illustrate another example impact-attenuation memberstructure in accordance with this invention;

FIGS. 4A through 4D illustrate another example impact-attenuation memberstructure in accordance with this invention;

FIGS. 5A and 5B illustrate another example impact-attenuation memberstructure in accordance with this invention;

FIG. 6 illustrates another example impact-attenuation member structurein accordance with this invention; and

FIG. 7 illustrates an example article of footwear structure includingplural impact-attenuation members in accordance with an example of thisinvention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In the following description of various example structures according tothe invention, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, whichform a part hereof, and in which are shown by way of illustrationvarious example devices, structures, systems, and environments in whichaspects of the invention may be practiced. It is to be understood thatother specific arrangements of parts, example devices, structures,systems, and environments may be utilized and structural and functionalmodifications may be made without departing from the scope of thepresent invention. Also, while the terms “top,” “bottom,” “side,”“front,” “rear,” “upper,” “lower,” “vertical,” “horizontal,” and thelike may be used in this specification to describe various examplefeatures and elements of the invention, these terms are used herein as amatter of convenience, e.g., based on the example orientations shown inthe figures, orientations at rest, and/or orientations during typicaluse. Nothing in this specification should be construed as requiring aspecific three dimensional orientation of structures in order to fallwithin the scope of this invention.

To assist the reader, this specification is broken into varioussubsections, as follows: Terms; General Background Relating to theInvention; General Description of Impact-Attenuation Members andProducts Containing Them; Specific Examples of the Invention; andConclusion.

A. Terms

The following terms are used in this specification, and unless otherwisenoted or clear from the context, these terms have the meanings providedbelow.

“Foot-receiving device” means any device into which a user places atleast some portion of his or her foot. In addition to all types offootwear (described below), foot-receiving devices include, but are notlimited to: bindings and other devices for securing feet in snow skis,cross country skis, water skis, snowboards, and the like; bindings,clips, or other devices for securing feet in pedals for use withbicycles, exercise equipment, and the like; bindings, clips, or otherdevices for receiving feet during play of video games or other games;and the like.

“Footwear” means any type of wearing apparel for the feet, and this termincludes, but is not limited to: all types of shoes, boots, sneakers,sandals, thongs, flip-flops, mules, scuffs, slippers, sport-specificshoes (such as golf shoes, basketball shoes, tennis shoes, baseballcleats, soccer or football cleats, ski boots, etc.), and the like.

“Foot-covering members” include one or more portions of a foot-receivingdevice that extend at least partially over and/or at least partiallycover at least some portion of the wearer's foot, e.g., so as to assistin holding the foot-receiving device on and/or in place with respect tothe wearer's foot. “Foot-covering members” include, but are not limitedto, upper members of the types provided in some conventional footwearproducts.

“Foot-supporting members” include one or more portions of afoot-receiving device that extend at least partially beneath at leastsome portion of the wearer's foot, e.g., so as to assist in supportingthe foot and/or attenuating the reaction forces to which the wearer'sfoot would be exposed, for example, when stepping down and/or landing ajump in the foot-receiving device. “Foot-supporting members” include,but are not limited to, sole members of the types provided in someconventional footwear products. Such sole members may includeconventional outsole, midsole, and/or insole members.

“Contact surface-contacting elements” or “members” include at least someportions of a foot-receiving device structure that contact the ground orany other surface in use, and/or at least some portions of afoot-receiving device structure that engage another element or structurein use. Such “contact surface-contacting elements” may include, forexample, but are not limited to, outsole elements provided in someconventional footwear products. “Contact surface-contacting elements” inat least some example structures may be made of suitable andconventional materials to provide long wear, traction, and protect thefoot and/or to prevent the remainder of the foot-receiving devicestructure from wear effects, e.g., when contacting the ground or othersurface in use.

B. General Background Relating to the Invention

During many typical athletic activities, such as basketball,cross-training, tennis, soccer, baseball, and the like, athletes willneed to quickly move, start, stop, and/or change directions (alsocommonly referred to as “cutting actions” or making “cuts”). During suchactivities, the lateral or shear force applied to the bottom unit of ashoe can be many times the athlete's body weight. This force, in atleast some instances, can cause the impact-attenuating elements of theshoe (e.g., the midsole foam materials, the impact-attenuating columnstructures, etc.) to buckle, slide, bend over sideways, and/or otherwisepartially continue movement in the direction of the force, which canresult in “roll-over” (e.g., it can result in the bottom of the outsolemember remaining in contact with the ground while the impact-attenuatingmaterial (or at least an upper portion thereof) continues moving,sliding, or rolling over under the applied lateral force) orimpact-attenuating column collapse.

Aspects of this invention relate to impact-attenuation members, such ascolumns, cylinders and other impact-attenuation members, e.g., for theheel or other areas of articles of footwear and other foot-receivingdevices, that provide increased stability against these lateral or shearforces. The term “stable against shear forces,” as used herein, meansthat the impact-attenuation member provides resistance against“roll-over” or column collapse, e.g., when the article of footwear (orother device) is used in its intended manner, e.g., for athleticactivities, by users of average or typical size and weight. In some morespecific examples, the inclusion of the shear resistant member withimpact-attenuation members in accordance with this invention (including,for example, the shear resistant member's structure, arrangement,orientation, etc.) will prevent impact-attenuation member roll-over orcollapse against shear forces having a magnitude at least 10% greaterthan the shear forces that would cause roll-over or collapse of asimilar impact-attenuation member without the shear resistant member (inother words, the presence of the shear resistant member allows theoverall impact-attenuation member structure to withstand at least a 10%greater shear force without roll-over or collapse). In still otherexamples, the presence of the shear resistant member will allow theoverall impact-attenuation member structure to withstand at least a 25%greater shear force, or even a 50%, 75%, 100%, 150%, or 200% greatershear force, without roll-over or collapse, as compared to a similarimpact-attenuation member without the shear resistant member.

C. General Description of Impact-Attenuation Members and ProductsContaining Them

In general, aspects of this invention relate to impact-attenuationmembers, products and systems in which they are used (such as footwear,other foot-receiving devices, heel units, and the like), and methods forincluding them and using them in such products and systems. These andother aspects and features of the invention are described in more detailbelow.

-   -   1. Impact-Attenuation Members

Impact-attenuation members in accordance with at least some exampleaspects of this invention provide adequate compression and impact forceattenuation in the substantially vertical direction (e.g., in thedirection of force application when landing a step or jump) so as not toprovide an overly “stiff” feeling article of footwear or otherfoot-receiving device product, while at the same time also providingsufficient shear force resistance in the lateral direction (e.g., in thedirection of force application when making a cut, changing directions,quickly starting or stopping, etc.) so as not to collapse, roll-over, orotherwise fail. Such impact-attenuation members may include, forexample: (a) an impact-attenuating member (e.g., made of phylon,phylite, polyurethane, or ethylvinylacetate foams); and (b) a shearresistant member engaged with the impact-attenuating member (in someexamples, the shear resistant member may include a rigid plasticmaterial (such as a thermoplastic material)). The shear resistant membermay be designed, structured, and positioned so as to allow bending orcompression against impact forces in a first direction (e.g., in thedirection of landing a step or a jump, in substantially the verticaldirection, etc.) and is stable against shear forces in a seconddirection different from the first direction (e.g., in a side-to-sidedirection, in substantially the horizontal direction, etc.). This may beaccomplished, for example, by arranging at least a portion of a majorsurface of the shear resistant member to extend in an expected directionof the shear or lateral force. If desired, the shear resistant membermay at least partially contain or substantially surround theimpact-attenuating member, or alternatively, the impact-attenuatingmember may at least partially contain or substantially surround theshear resistant member. The impact-attenuating member and/or the shearresistant member may be selected and/or oriented so as to provide adesired, controlled degree of bending or compression in the firstdirection. The overall impact-attenuation member may have a columnar orcylindrical structure, in accordance with at least some examples of thisinvention.

A wide variety of impact-attenuation member structures are possiblewithout departing from this invention. For example, in accordance withat least some structures according to the invention, the shear resistantmember may form a “box” or “frame” type structure (e.g., a substantiallycubic rectangular structure) in which the impact-attenuating member islocated. As a more specific example, the box structure may include afirst wall (e.g., a top wall), a second wall opposite the first wall(e.g., a bottom wall), a third wall extending from the first wall to thesecond wall (e.g., optionally having a major surface extendingsubstantially parallel to an expected direction of shear force), and afourth wall opposite the third wall and extending from the first wall tothe second wall. The other opposing sides of the box structure mayremain open (e.g., to better allow bending or compressing of the shearresistant element structure in the first direction, i.e., the expecteddirection of impact forces). If desired, in an unbent or uncompressedcondition (also referred to as a “base orientation” in thisspecification), the impact-attenuating member may contact, attach to,and/or otherwise engage the first wall and/or the second wall of the boxstructure, but optionally, it need not contact, attach to, and/orotherwise engage the third wall and/or the fourth wall (although it maydo so, if desired, in some structures). The impact-attenuating member,in at least some example structures, may be substantially triangularshaped.

Another example impact-attenuation member structure in accordance withsome examples of this invention includes a shear resistant member havinga first end, a second end opposite the first end, and a zigzag wallmember or other collapsible wall member structure extending between thefirst end and the second end. The impact-attenuation member in suchstructures may include a first impact-attenuating element provided on afirst side of the zigzag or collapsible wall member and a secondimpact-attenuating element provided on a second side of the zigzag wallor collapsible wall member. The zigzag wall member may extend insubstantially the first direction so as to allow the impact forces tocompress the wall member about the zigzag structures. Of course, othercollapsible structures are possible without departing from theinvention, including, for example, wall members having independentportions that are slidable with respect to one another so as to collapsesomewhat when exposed to impact forces; a pre-curved wall member; apre-bent wall member; a wall member with pre-incorporated bend or “fail”lines; etc.

As still another example impact-attenuation member structure inaccordance with this invention, the shear resistant member and/or theimpact-attenuating member may constitute a plurality of slat members,optionally arranged in an alternating structure (e.g.,impact-attenuating material slat, shear resistant member slat,impact-attenuating material slat, shear resistant member slat, etc.,arranged parallel to one another). If desired, either or both of theshear resistant member or the impact-attenuating member may include abase surface from which plural slat elements extend. Also, if desired,in at least some structures, the shear resistant member slat elementsmay be thinner than the impact-attenuating member slats (e.g., to betterpromote bending of the shear resistant member slats in response toimpact forces). As still another option, if desired, the slat elementsmay be curved, pre-bent, zigzag, or otherwise structured so as to betterpromote a desired degree of bending or collapse in response to impactforces.

Another example impact-attenuation member structure in accordance withthis invention includes a shear resistant member having a central region(e.g., a “hub” region) with plural vanes or spokes extending from thecentral region. Portions of the impact-attenuating member may bearranged between the vanes of the shear resistant member. In at leastsome examples, the shear resistant member may have an “X” structure, andit may be arranged such that the impact forces (e.g., from landing astep or jump) are incident between branches of the structure and areattenuated due to flexibility of the arms of the X structure at thecentral region.

In yet another example impact-attenuation member structure in accordancewith this invention, the shear resistant member may be made compressibleby providing it in multiple parts arranged in a “telescoping” orotherwise collapsible manner. As a more specific example, such shearresistant members may include at least: (a) a first shear resistantelement having a first base member and a first extending memberextending from the first base member, and (b) a second shear resistantelement having a second base member and a second extending memberextending from the second base member, and (c) at least a portion of theimpact-attenuating member arranged between the first base member and thesecond base member (and surrounding the first extending member). Thebase members may be arranged substantially parallel to one another, andthe various extending members may be sized and positioned such that oneextending member extends at least partially into another extendingmember at least when the impact-attenuation member is bent or compressed(e.g., in a telescoping manner) and optionally when it is in an unbentor uncompressed condition. If desired, the extending members may extendin substantially the expected direction of the impact forces and may bearranged such that they further “telescope” within one another whenimpact forces are applied. Of course, any desired number of shearresistant members and/or extending member fitting structures or schemesmay be used without departing from the invention.

Another example impact-attenuation member in accordance with thisinvention includes a single element that provides both shear resistanceand impact attenuation properties. Such impact-attenuation members mayinclude a shear resistant member having a continuous wall member thatbulges outward on opposing sides when in an uncompressed baseorientation. This wall member may define an opening or through holebetween the opposing sides, wherein the wall member bends against impactforces in a first direction (e.g., a substantially vertical direction,from landing a step and/or jump, etc.) and is stable against shearforces in a second direction different from the first direction (e.g.,in a substantial lateral, side-to-side, and/or horizontal direction). Insome more specific examples, the wall member may be a rigid material,such as a rigid thermoplastic material or the like. Optionally, ifdesired, the impact-attenuation member further may include a restrainingmember at least partially surrounding the shear resistant member, e.g.,to limit bending of the wall member in response to the impact forces, toassist in restoring the wall member toward the base orientation afterthe impact forces are relaxed or removed, to prevent exposure to dirt ordebris, etc. In at least some examples, the wall member may besubstantially spherically or ellipsoidally shaped, optionally with afirst truncated side and a second truncated side, wherein the first andsecond truncated sides provide access to the opening (and optionally athrough hole completely through the wall member) and/or access to thehollow interior of the wall sphere or ellipsoid. Also, in at least someexamples of this invention, the shear resistant member and/or theoverall impact-attenuation member may consist of or consist essentiallyof the wall member.

-   -   2. Foot-Receiving Device Products Including Impact-Attenuation        Members and Methods of Making and Using Such Products

Additional aspects of this invention relate to foot-receiving deviceproducts, such as articles of footwear (including athletic footwear),that include impact-attenuation members, e.g., of the types describedabove. As a more specific example, foot-receiving device products, suchas articles of footwear, in accordance with at least some examples ofthis invention may include: (a) a foot-covering member (such as an uppermember); and (b) a foot-supporting member (such as a sole structure or aportion of a sole structure) engaged with the foot-covering member. Thefoot-supporting member in accordance with at least some examples of thisinvention may include one or more impact-attenuation members having: (i)an impact-attenuating member; and (ii) a shear resistant member engagedwith the impact-attenuating member, wherein the shear resistant memberallows bending or compression against impact forces in a substantiallyvertical, step landing and/or jump landing direction and is stableagainst shear forces in a substantially lateral direction (e.g., in adirection from the medial side to the lateral side of the foot and viceversa, in the substantially horizontal direction, etc.). As anotherexample, the impact-attenuation member(s) may include: (i) a shearresistant member that includes a continuous wall member that bulgesoutward on opposing sides when in an uncompressed base orientation, thewall member defining an opening between the opposing sides, wherein thewall member bends against impact forces in a substantially vertical,step landing, and/or jump landing direction and is stable against shearforces in a substantially lateral direction (e.g., in a direction fromthe medial side to the lateral side of the foot and vice versa, in thesubstantially horizontal direction, etc.); and, optionally, (ii) arestraining member at least partially surrounding the shear resistantmember.

Of course, the impact-attenuation members included in footwear and otherfoot-receiving device products in accordance with this aspect of theinvention may have any desired structure and configuration, includingthe various structures and configurations described in more detail above(and those described in more detail below). Additionally, the overallfootwear and other foot-receiving device products may have any desiredconstruction or configuration, including upper members and/or solestructures having conventional constructions and configurations that areknown and used in the art. In some more specific examples according tothis invention, impact-attenuation members according to examples of thisinvention may be included in footwear products at locations andorientations similar to those used in conventional footwear productsavailable from NIKE, Inc. of Beaverton, Oreg., e.g., under the “SHOX”brand trademark, e.g., such that the impact-attenuation members are atleast partially visible in the final product configuration.Alternatively, if desired, the impact-attenuation member(s) may behidden or at least partially hidden in the overall footwear orfoot-receiving device structure, such as within the foam material of amidsole element, within a gas-filled bladder member, etc. Also, anynumber of individual impact-attenuation members may be included in anarticle of footwear or other foot-receiving device product withoutdeparting from this invention.

Still additional aspects of this invention relate to methods of makingfootwear products including impact-attenuation members in accordancewith examples of this invention and methods of using suchimpact-attenuation members and/or such footwear products, e.g., forattenuating contact surface impact or reaction forces. Such methods mayinclude constructing an article of footwear or other foot-receivingdevice product, e.g., by any desired method, including conventionalmethods that are known and used in the art, wherein one or moreimpact-attenuation member according to the invention is incorporatedinto the footwear or other product structure (e.g., as a portion of asole member, in the heel or toe area of the article of footwear, etc.).Once incorporated in the footwear or other product structure, thearticle of footwear or other product may be used in its known andconventional manner, and the impact-attenuation member will attenuatethe ground reaction forces (e.g., from landing a step or jump) whilealso resisting shear or lateral forces and/or movement or collapse ofthe impact-attenuation member and providing shear or lateral stability(e.g., during direction changes, cutting actions, starting and/orstopping actions, and the like).

Specific examples of structures according to the invention are describedin more detail below. The reader should understand that these specificexamples are set forth merely to illustrate examples of the invention,and they should not be construed as limiting the invention.

D. Specific Examples of the Invention

The various figures in this application illustrate examples ofimpact-attenuation members, as well as products and methods according toexamples of this invention. When the same reference number appears inmore than one drawing, that reference number is used consistently inthis specification and the drawings to refer to the same or similarparts throughout. In the description above and that which follows,various connections and/or engagements are set forth between elements inthe overall structures. The reader should understand that theseconnections and/or engagements in general and, unless specifiedotherwise, may be direct or indirect and that this specification is notintended to be limiting in this respect.

-   -   1. Caged or Box Type Impact-Attenuation Members

FIGS. 1A through 1D illustrate an example impact-attenuation member 100having a “box” or “caged” type structure. As illustrated, theimpact-attenuation member 100 includes a shear resistant outer framestructure 102. While any desired frame structure 102 shape may be usedwithout departing from this invention, in this illustrated example, theframe structure 102 is a substantially rectangular cubic or “box” typeshape (with gently curved, outwardly bowed side edges). The framestructure 102 includes a top wall 102 a, a bottom wall 102 b, twoopposing side walls 102 c and 102 d, and two open, opposing sides 102 eand 102 f. The frame 102 defines a through hole or hollow structurebetween the walls 102 a through 102 d. Inside the frame structure 102,an impact-attenuating member 104 is provided. This impact-attenuatingmember 104 may be of any desired shape without departing from theinvention. In this illustrated example, the impact-attenuating member104 is substantially triangular cylinder shaped (with gently curved,outwardly bowed side edges).

The various parts of this example impact-attenuation member 100 may bemade of any desired materials without departing from this invention. Forexample, the impact-attenuating member 104 may be made of any desiredimpact-attenuating material, such as rubber (natural or synthetic),polymeric materials (e.g., polyurethane, ethylvinylacetate, phylon,phylite, foams, etc.), and the like, including impact-attenuatingmaterials of the types used in conventional midsole structures,impact-attenuating columns, and/or footwear constructions. The framestructure 102 may be made from a rigid but flexible or bendablematerial, such as rigid plastic materials like thermoplastic materials,thermosetting materials, polyurethanes, and other rigid polymericmaterials, etc., including hard plastic or other materialsconventionally used in sole structures, footwear, and/or otherfoot-receiving device structures. As one more specific example, theframe structure 102 may be made from a PEBAX® material (e.g., apolyether-block co-polyamide polymer commercially available from AtofinaCorporation of Puteaux, France).

Various other example structural features of the impact-attenuationmember 100 may be seen in FIGS. 1A through 1D. For example, in thisillustrated example structure 100, the impact-attenuating member 104completely fills the frame structure 102 in the vertical (or expectedincident impact force) direction (i.e., from top wall 102 a to bottomwall 102 b), but it optionally leaves a relatively small, unfilled gapalong the side edges (i.e., between the impact-attenuating member 104and the side walls 102 c and 102 d). If desired, the impact-attenuatingmember 104 may be secured to the frame structure 102 (e.g., to the topwall 102 a and/or the bottom wall 102 b) in any desired manner, such asusing mechanical connectors, adhesives, cements, friction fit, fusingtechniques, a restraining member, or the like. In this illustratedexample, a top perimeter or surface portion 104 a of theimpact-attenuating member 104 fits into an opening 106 or otherretaining structure provided in the top wall 102 a. This top perimeteror surface portion 104 a may be fixed in the opening 106 (or otherstructure), if desired, by adhesives or cements, mechanical connectors,friction fit, fusing techniques, etc. Also, if desired, a similar (ordifferent) securing system may be provided at the bottom of theimpact-attenuating member 104 and/or with the bottom wall 102 b of theframe structure 102. As another example, if desired, the opening 106 maybe omitted, and the impact-attenuating member 104 may be fixed to theinside surface of the top wall 102 a and/or bottom wall 102 b (e.g., byadhesives, etc.), it may fit into grooves, recesses, or other structuresprovided inside the frame structure 102, etc. If desired, a restrainingmember (like that described in more detail in conjunction with FIG. 6)may be used to at least partially surround or enclose theimpact-attenuation member 100.

While the impact-attenuation member 100 may be mounted in an article offootwear or other foot-receiving device structure in any desired mannerwithout departing from this invention, in this illustrated examplestructure 100, the impact-attenuation member 100 may be mounted suchthat the side walls 102 c and 102 d extend substantially in the lateral,side-to-side direction of the article of footwear (e.g., such that ahorizontal line parallel to and located on the surface of the wallmember 102 c or 102 d runs substantially parallel to the side-to-sidedirection of the article of footwear to which it is mounted and/orsubstantially parallel to an expected direction of lateral or shearforce to which the footwear would be exposed, e.g., during a cuttingaction, during a rapid direction change, during a quick stopping action,etc.). In other words, in this illustrated example structure 100, thetriangular point of the impact-attenuating member 104 that points outthe open side 102 e also will point to the lateral or medial side of theshoe structure (and optionally toward the interior of the shoe, e.g., ofthe heel area, such that the broad side 104 b of the impact-attenuatingmember 104 faces outward).

The above described structure and arrangement of the impact-attenuationmember 100 in a footwear structure can provide various advantageousfeatures. For example, in the structure and arrangement described above,the open sides 102 e and 102 f of the frame structure 102 will allow thetop wall 102 a and bottom wall 102 b of the frame structure 102 todeflect and move toward one another under a compressive force 108 (e.g.,when a wearer lands a step or jump—see FIG. 1C). The rigidity of theframe structure 102 and the density of the impact-attenuating material104 may be selected such that the overall structure 100 provides acontrolled, desired degree of compression in the substantially verticaldirection. If desired, the impact-attenuating member 104 may include athrough-hole, blind hole, opening, or hollow structure, e.g., to allowgas to escape from the material and compression when compressive forcesare applied to it. The gaps between the impact-attenuating member 104and the side walls 102 c and 102 d (as described above) also help keepthe frame structure 102 out of the impact-attenuating member 104's wayduring its compression, such that its compression is not substantiallyimpeded or restricted. Also, if desired, the various features andcharacteristics of the frame structure 102 (e.g., plastic rigidity,thickness, length, width, height, wall curvature, wall sizes, etc.) maybe selected to control its resistance to deflection and compression inthe vertical direction (e.g., if desired, to provide minimal compressionresistance in the vertical direction, and to allow theimpact-attenuating member 104 to perform the majority of theimpact-attenuating functions).

Despite its readily controllable compressibility and its ability tocompress in the vertical direction (e.g., due, at least in part, to theopen ends 102 e and 102 f of frame structure 102), this overallstructure 100 is laterally stable and resistant to shear forces and tocollapse or other failure from shear forces, e.g., in the horizontal,side-to-side direction (in the lateral-to-medial side direction or viceversa), due, at least in part, to the presence of the side walls 102 cand 102 d and their arrangement in a direction substantially parallel tothe shear force incident direction 110 (see FIG. 1D). More specifically,the side walls 102 c and 102 d provide strong structures that resistcollapse or movement when forces in opposing horizontal directions areapplied at the top and bottom of the side wall structures 102 c and 102d, e.g., when a wearer stops quickly, makes a cutting action, changesdirections, etc.

Because the impact-attenuating member 104 need not also perform shearresistant functions in this illustrated structure 100, the size, shape,and materials of the impact-attenuating member 104 may be freelyselected so as to provide the desired degree of impact-attenuation(optionally in combination with impact attenuation provided by the framemember 102, if any). Therefore, one does not have to provide an overly“stiff” impact-attenuating column to provide both the desired degree oflateral stability and shear force resistance. Rather, animpact-attenuation member 100 having a desired degree of “softness” canbe produced without sacrificing lateral stability and/or shear forceresistance.

Also, if desired, one or more impact-attenuation members 100 may beattached to one or more external elements, such as base plate structuresor other footwear or foot-receiving device members, e.g., so as toprovide a “heel” unit or “heel cage” that may be incorporated into anarticle of footwear or other foot-receiving device product. If desired,the exterior of the frame structure 102 and/or the impact-attenuatingmember 104 may include structures that assist with securing the overallmember 100 to these external elements, such as grooves, extendingsurfaces, retaining walls, openings, slots, mechanical connectors, andthe like. As mentioned above, impact-attenuation members 100 of thistype may be provided and used in the manner that columns are providedand used in conventional footwear products, such as conventionalfootwear products available from NIKE, Inc. of Beaverton, Oreg. underthe “SHOX” brand trademark.

-   -   2. Impact-Attenuation Members Having a Collapsible Shear        Resistant Wall Member

FIGS. 2A through 2C illustrate another example impact-attenuation member200 in accordance with this invention. In this example structure 200, aninterior shear resistant wall member 202 is provided that is embedded inor surrounded by one or more impact-attenuating members (a single wallmember 202 centrally located between two independent impact-attenuatingmember portions 204 a and 204 b is shown in the illustrated example ofFIGS. 2A through 2C). If desired, as shown in FIGS. 2A through 2C, thewall member 202 may include an expanded top surface 202 a and anexpanded bottom surface 202 b, and optionally, these expanded surfaces202 a and/or 202 b may extend in one (or optionally more) directionsfrom the vertical wall portion 202 c and along the top and bottom,respectively, of the column structure 200. These expanded surfaces 202 aand 202 b may fit into (and optionally cemented to) recessed areas 206 aand 206 b provided in the top and/or bottom of the impact-attenuatingmember portions 204 a and 204 b, so as to provide an overall relativelysmooth, flush surface when fit together and to further enhance shearresistance. Note FIGS. 2B and 2C. These top and bottom surfaces 202 aand 202 b, respectively, may cover as much of the top and bottomportions of the columnar impact-attenuation member structure 200 asdesired, and optionally, they may include one or more openings definedtherein, e.g., to allow for release of gas from the impact-attenuatingmember portions 204 a and 204 b during compression thereof. The overallimpact-attenuation member 200 may be fit and held together in anydesired manner without departing from this invention, including throughthe use of cements, adhesives, mechanical connectors, fusing techniques,restraining members, and the like. Of course, if desired, multiple shearresistant wall members (e.g., like wall member 202) may be provided inthe overall structure 200 without departing from this invention.

The shear resistant wall member 202 may be made from any desiredmaterials without departing from this invention, including the variousmaterials described above for use with the frame structure 102.Likewise, the impact-attenuating member portions 204 a and 204 b may bemade from any desired materials without departing from the invention,including the same or different materials, and including the variousmaterials described above for impact-attenuating material 104. Ifdesired, at least a portion of one of the impact-attenuating memberportions 204 a and/or 204 b may be at least partially hollowed out,e.g., to allow room for compression, gas release, and/or wall member 202deflection or movement during compression of the columnar structure 200.

The above described structure and arrangement of the impact-attenuationmember 200 can provide various advantageous features. For example, inthe structure and arrangement described above, the zigzag structure ofthe wall member 202 will allow the top surface 202 a and bottom surface202 b of the wall member 202 to relatively move toward one another undera compressive force 208 (e.g., when a wearer lands a step or jump—seeFIG. 2A) in a uniform and repeatable manner. The rigidity of the wallmember 202 and/or the density of the impact-attenuating member portions204 a and 204 b may be selected such that the overall structure 200provides a controlled, desired degree of compression in thesubstantially vertical or landing direction. Because of its zigzagstructure, the wall member 202 can be made to relatively freely collapseunder compressive force, but it also can be made so as to substantiallyreturn to its original shape and orientation once the force is releasedor relaxed. Also, if desired, the various features and characteristicsof the wall member 202 (e.g., plastic rigidity, thickness, length,width, height, numbers of zigzags, the presence of openings, etc.) maybe selected to control its resistance to deformation and compression inthe vertical or landing direction (e.g., to provide minimal compressionresistance in the vertical or landing direction, if desired, and toallow the impact-attenuating member portions 204 a and 204 b to performthe majority or substantially all of the impact-attenuating functions).

Despite its readily controllable compressibility and its ability toreadily compress in the vertical or landing direction (e.g., due, atleast in part, to the zigzag structure of wall member 202), this overallstructure 200 is resistant to shear forces and to collapse or otherfailure from shear forces, e.g., in the horizontal, side-to-sidedirection (in the lateral-to-medial side direction or vice versa) due,at least in part, to the presence of the major wall portion 202 c andits arrangement in a direction substantially parallel to the shear forceincident direction 210 (see FIG. 2A). More specifically, the major wallportion 202 c provides a strong structure that resists collapse,deformation, or movement when forces in different directions are appliedat its top and bottom, e.g., when a wearer stops quickly, makes acutting action, changes directions, etc.

Because the impact-attenuating member portions 204 a and 204 b need notperform shear resistant functions in this illustrated structure 200, thesize, shape, and materials of the impact-attenuating member portions 204a and 204 b may be freely selected so as to provide the desired degreeof impact-attenuation. Therefore, one does not have to provide an overly“stiff” column to provide both the desired degree of lateral stabilityand shear force resistance. Rather, an impact-attenuation member 200having a desired degree of “softness” can be produced withoutsacrificing lateral stability and shear force resistance.

Of course, other ways of providing a “collapsible” wall member arepossible without departing from this invention. For example, if desired,the shear resistant wall member could be curved rather than zigzagstructured. As another example, if desired, pre-bent lines or “fail”lines could be provided in a wall member structure to better allow thewall member to collapse in the vertical direction. As still anotherexample, if desired, a multi-part wall member 202 may be provided,optionally spring biased to the uncompressed orientation, in which oneportion of the wall member slides, rotates, or otherwise moves withrespect to another part of the wall member to thereby provide acollapsing structure. Also, if desired, a single impact-attenuationmember 200 may include multiple shear resistant wall members, e.g.,zigzag or otherwise structured.

Also, if desired, one or more impact-attenuation members 200 may beattached to one or more external elements, such as base plate structuresor other footwear or foot-receiving device member structures e.g., so asto provide a “heel” unit or “heel cage” that may be incorporated into anarticle of footwear or other foot-receiving device product (note thearrangement of plural impact-attenuation members 200 shown in FIG. 2A).If desired, the exterior of the wall member 202 and/or theimpact-attenuating member portions 204 a and 204 b may includestructures that assist with securing to these external elements, such asgrooves, extending surfaces, retaining walls, openings, slots,mechanical connectors, and the like. As mentioned above,impact-attenuation members 200 of this type may be provided and used inthe manner that foam columns are provided and used in conventionalfootwear products, such as conventional footwear products available fromNIKE, Inc. of Beaverton, Oreg. under the “SHOX” brand trademark.

-   -   3. Impact-Attenuation Members Having Alternating        Impact-Attenuating Member/Shear Resistant Member Structures

FIGS. 3A through 3C illustrate another example impact-attenuation member300 in accordance with this invention. Like the various examplestructures described above, this impact-attenuation member 300 includesa shear resistant member 302 and an impact-attenuating member 304, e.g.,optionally made from the materials used for shear resistant members 102and 202 and impact-attenuating members 104, 204 a, and 204 b,respectively, described above. In this example impact-attenuation memberstructure 300, the shear resistant member 302 constitutes a plurality ofwall slats 302 a, e.g., arranged in parallel and vertically or in thedirection of expected incident force, e.g., when landing a step or jump.See also FIG. 3B. Similarly, the impact-attenuating member 304constitutes a plurality of slat members 304 a, e.g., arranged inparallel and vertically or in the direction of the expected incidentforce, e.g., when landing a step or jump. See also FIG. 3C.

While FIGS. 3A through 3C illustrate the shear resistant member 302 andthe impact-attenuating member 304 each as a plurality of independent anddistinct slat walls 302 a or slat members 304 a, respectively, this isnot a requirement. For example, if desired, at least some of the slatwalls 302 a could emanate from a common shear resistant member baseprovided, for example, at the top and/or bottom surfaces of the overallimpact-attenuation member structure 300. Additionally or alternatively,if desired, at least some of the slat members 304 a could emanate from acommon impact-attenuating member base provided, for example, at the topand/or bottom surfaces of the overall impact-attenuation memberstructure 300. As still another example, if desired, the bases for theshear resistant member 302 and/or the impact-attenuating member 304,when present, may be provided at locations other than the top and/orbottom of the overall impact-attenuation member structure 300 (such asfrom a base member engaged with the impact-attenuating member side, froma base member extending through a central portion of the columnstructure, etc.).

The impact-attenuating member 304 and the shear resistant member 302 ofthis structure may be held together in any desired manner withoutdeparting from this invention. For example, cements, adhesives, fusingtechniques, and/or mechanical connectors may be used to hold the variouselements in place with respect to one another. As another example, ifdesired (and as illustrated in the example structure of FIG. 6), arestraining element (e.g., made of plastic material) may at leastpartially fit around and contain the slat walls 302 a and slat members304 a.

If desired, as illustrated in FIGS. 3A and 3C, the impact-attenuatingslat members 304 a may define a central opening 306, e.g., to allow aplace for compression, to allow a place for gas escape from the interiorof the slat members 304 a during compression, to allow room for slatwall 302 a movement or deflection during compression, etc.

When mounted in an article of footwear or other foot-receiving deviceproduct, impact-attenuation members 300 of the type illustrated in FIG.3A may be arranged such that the slat wall members 302 a extendsubstantially in a direction from the top to the bottom in the overallfootwear structure (e.g., such that the major surfaces of the slat walls302 a run substantially parallel to the vertical direction and/or adirection of expected impact forces 308 and substantially parallel to aside-to-side direction in the footwear structure and/or a direction ofexpected lateral or shear forces 310 when making at least some stopping,cutting, or direction change actions). Because the slat wall members 302a are substantially parallel to the expected impact force direction inthis illustrated example structure 300, these impact-attenuation members300 may be expected to be somewhat “stiffer” feeling than some of theother structures described above (because no “collapsing” structure isdescribed above). Such a “stiffer” feeling may be desirable for at leastsome wearers, in at least some situations (e.g., for use in somesporting applications, such as soccer, football, baseball, etc.).Nonetheless, the thickness, overall number, spacing, and/or otherfeatures of the slat walls 302 a may be controlled and/or selected toprovide a desired degree of impact-attenuation with respect to impactforces.

Again, the existence of the major surface(s) of the slat walls 302 aextending in a direction substantially parallel to an expected directionof a lateral or shear force (e.g., side-to-side) provides excellentstability for the impact-attenuation member 300 against lateral or shearforces.

Of course, other ways for making impact-attenuation member structures300 of the types illustrated in FIGS. 3A through 3C less “stiff” arepossible without departing from this invention. For example, if desired,the slat walls 302 a could be provided with “zigzags,” “fail” lines, orother pre-bent structures, e.g., as illustrated and/or described abovewith respect to FIGS. 2A through 2C. As another example, if desired, theslat walls 302 a could be curved somewhat, to bias the walls to bend ina predetermined manner and direction. As still another example, the slatwalls 302 a could be arranged at an angle with respect to the vertical(or expected direction of impact forces), to thereby allow more of a“collapsing” or softer feel. Also, if desired, the slat walls 302 acould include portions that slide or otherwise move with respect to oneanother, to thereby allow more of a “collapsing” or softer feel.

Also, if desired, one or more impact-attenuation members 300 may beattached to one or more external elements, such as base plate structuresor other footwear or foot-receiving device member structures, e.g., soas to provide a “heel” unit or “heel cage” that may be incorporated intoan article of footwear or other foot-receiving device product. Ifdesired, one or more of the slat walls 302 a, the impact-attenuatingslat members 304 a, and/or other structure associated with theimpact-attenuation member 300, such as a restraining member or basemember, may include structures that assist with securing to theseexternal elements, such as grooves, extending surfaces, retaining walls,openings, slots, mechanical connectors, and the like. As mentionedabove, impact-attenuation members 300 of this type may be provided andused in the manner that foam columns are provided and used inconventional footwear products, such as conventional footwear productsavailable from NIKE, Inc. of Beaverton, Oreg. under the “SHOX” brandtrademark.

-   -   4. Impact-Attenuation Members Having a Sectioned        Impact-Attenuating Member Structure

FIGS. 4A through 4D illustrate another example impact-attenuation member400 in accordance with this invention. This example impact-attenuationmember 400 includes a shear resistant member 402 and animpact-attenuating member 404, e.g., optionally made from the materialsused for shear resistant members 102, 202, and 302 andimpact-attenuating members 104, 204 a, 204 b, and 304, respectively,described above. In this illustrated example impact-attenuation memberstructure 400, the shear resistant member 402 includes a central regionor “hub” 402 a with plural vanes 402 b extending from it (e.g., toprovide an overall three-dimensional “X” shaped shear resistant member402 with an open center). The impact-attenuating member 404, on theother hand, constitutes a plurality of independent sections 404 aarranged between the vanes 402 b of the shear resistant member 402.

While FIGS. 4A, 4B, and 4D illustrate the impact-attenuating member 404as a plurality of independent and separate sections 404 a, this is not arequirement. For example, if desired, some or all of the sections 404 amay be joined together and constitute a single piece. Additionally,while the shear resistant member 402 is shown as a single piece in FIGS.4A through 4C, it may be made of multiple pieces without departing fromthis invention. Of course, the impact-attenuating member sections 404 aand the shear resistant member 402 of this structure 400 may be heldtogether in any desired manner without departing from this invention.For example, cements, adhesives, fusing techniques, and/or mechanicalconnectors may be used to hold the various elements in place withrespect to one another. As another example, if desired (and asillustrated in the example structure of FIG. 6), a restraining element(e.g., made of plastic material) may at least partially fit around andcontain the various parts of the impact-attenuation member 400.

If desired, as illustrated in FIGS. 4A, 4B, and 4D, at least some of theimpact-attenuating member sections 404 a may define a central opening406, e.g., to allow a place for compression, to allow a place for gasescape from the interior of the sections 404 a during compression, etc.Also, as illustrated in FIG. 4C, the central region 402 a of the shearresistant member 402 also may define an open area 402 c, to better allowdeformation of the shear resistant member 402 under impact forces 408,to allow impact-attenuating member 404 deformation, to allow gas escape,etc.

When mounted in an article of footwear or other foot-receiving deviceproduct, impact-attenuation members 400 of the types illustrated inFIGS. 4A through 4D may be arranged such that the vertical or landingdirection force extends between arms of the “X” of the shear resistantmember 402 and such that the central region 402 a and the major surfacesof the vanes 402 b extend substantially parallel to a side-to-sidedirection in the footwear structure and in a direction of expectedlateral or shear forces 410 when making stopping, cutting, or directionchange actions. The “stiffness” of the overall impact-attenuation memberstructure 400 may be controlled, for example, by controlling the size ofthe opening 402 c, the thickness, angle, and/or positioning of the vanes402 b, the dimensions of the central region 402 a, the number of vanes402 b, the material of the shear resistant member 402, etc. If desired,the shear resistant member 402 may be selected so as to provide minimalor a desired degree of impact-attenuation against impact forces 408,e.g., in a vertical direction or in an impact force incident directionwhen landing a step or jump. Again, the existence of the central region402 a and the major surface(s) of the vanes 402 b extending in adirection substantially parallel to an expected direction of a lateralor shear force provides excellent stability for the impact-attenuationmember 400 against lateral or shear forces.

Of course, any number and/or arrangement of vanes 402 b may be usedwithout departing from the invention. As some more specific examples, ifdesired, two vanes 402 b may extend from a central region 402 a with thecentral region 402 a arranged toward the bottom and/or top of theoverall impact-attenuation member structure, e.g., to provide an overallV-shaped and/or inverted V-shaped shear resistant member structure.

Also, if desired, one or more impact-attenuation members 400 may beattached to one or more external elements, such as base plate structuresor other footwear or foot-receiving device member structures, e.g., soas to provide a “heel” unit or “heel cage” that may be incorporated intoan article of footwear or other foot-receiving device product. Ifdesired, one or more of the vanes 402 b and/or the impact-attenuatingsections 404 a (or other structures associated with theimpact-attenuation member 400, such as a restraining member or a basemember) may include structures that assist with securing to theseexternal elements, such as grooves, extending surfaces, retaining walls,openings, slots, mechanical connectors, and the like. As mentionedabove, impact-attenuation members 400 of this type may be provided andused in the manner that foam columns are provided and used inconventional footwear products, such as conventional footwear productsavailable from NIKE, Inc. of Beaverton, Oreg. under the “SHOX” brandtrademark.

-   -   5. Impact-Attenuation Members Having a “Telescoping” Shear        Resistant Member Structure

Another example impact-attenuation member structure 500 according tothis invention is illustrated in FIGS. 5A and 5B. Again, this examplestructure 500 includes a shear resistant member 502 and animpact-attenuating member 504. In this example structure 500, the shearresistant member 502 includes a plurality of independent portions 502 a,and each portion 502 a includes a base member 502 b and an extendingmember 502 c. Independent sections 504 a of the impact-attenuatingmember 504 are arranged between the portions 502 a of the shearresistant member 502. The shear resistant member 502 and theimpact-attenuating member 504 may be made, for example, from thematerials used for shear resistant members 102, 202, 302, and 402 andimpact-attenuating members 104, 204 a, 204 b, 304, and 404,respectively, described above.

The extending members 502 c of the shear resistant member 502 may besized such that the exterior diameter of one extending member 502 c issomewhat smaller than an opening in the base member 502 b (and an openinterior diameter of the extending member 502 c) immediately adjacent toit. In this manner, when compressed against a substantially vertical orother impact force 508 (e.g., when landing a jump or step), theextending members 502 c will extend through and slide in the openings inthe adjacent neighboring base member 502 b and inside its extendingmember 502 c, e.g., in a telescoping manner. If desired, in itsuncompressed state, the extending members 502 c may extend at leastsomewhat within its adjacent extending member 502 c in a telescopingmanner, which helps maintain the desired structural arrangement at alltimes, whether or not compressing forces 508 act on the overallstructure 500. A tight fit in this telescoping manner also can assist inproviding lateral stability and resistance to shear or lateral forces510, as the extending portions 502 c will tend to contact one anotherand provide resistance under lateral or shear force 510. If necessary ordesired, lubricating material may be provided to enable easy slidingmovement of one extending member 502 c with respect to others.

While FIGS. 5A and 5B illustrate the shear resistant member 502 and theimpact-attenuating member 504 each as a plurality of independentportions 502 a and sections 504 a, this is not a requirement. Forexample, if desired, some or all of the portions 502 a and/or sections504 a may be joined together and/or constitute a single piece. Ofcourse, the impact-attenuating member sections 504 a and the shearresistant member portions 502 a of this structure 500 may be heldtogether in any desired manner without departing from this invention.For example, cements, adhesives, fusing techniques, and/or mechanicalconnectors may be used to hold the various elements together and inplace with respect to one another. As another example, if desired (andas illustrated in the example structure of FIG. 6), a restrainingelement (e.g., made of plastic material) may at least partially fitaround and contain the various parts of the impact-attenuation member500. The elements of the impact-attenuation member 500 also may be heldtogether by the presence of structural elements in an overall structure(e.g., footwear or other foot-receiving device structure) in which it ismounted.

When mounted in an article of footwear or other foot-receiving device,impact-attenuation members 500 of the types illustrated in FIGS. 5A and5B may be arranged such that the vertical direction and/or direction ofexpected impact force 508 extends substantially in the direction of theextending members 502 c and such that the major surfaces of the baseportions 502 b of the shear resistant members 502 extend substantiallyparallel to a side-to-side direction in the footwear structure and/or ina direction of expected lateral or shear forces 510 when makingstopping, cutting, or direction change actions. The “stiffness” of theoverall impact-attenuation member structure 500 may be controlled, forexample, by controlling the thickness, angle, and/or positioning of theshear resistant portions 502 a, the number of shear resistant portions502 a, the materials of the shear resistant portions 502 a andimpact-attenuating sections 504 a, etc. If desired, the shear resistantmember 502 may be structured so as to provide minimal or a desireddegree of impact-attenuation against impact forces 508, e.g., in avertical direction or in an incident direction when landing a step orjump. The existence of the base portions 502 a (having a major surfaceextending in a direction substantially parallel to an expected directionof a lateral or shear force 510) and relatively close fitting of theextending portions 502 c within one another provide excellent stabilityfor the impact-attenuation member 500 against lateral or shear forces.

Also, if desired, one or more impact-attenuation members 500 may beattached to one or more external elements, such as base plate structuresor other footwear or foot-receiving device member structures, e.g., soas to provide a “heel” unit or “heel cage” that may be incorporated intoan article of footwear or other foot-receiving device product. Ifdesired, one or more of the shear resistant portions 502 a and/or theimpact-attenuating sections 504 a (or other structure associated withthe impact-attenuation member 500, such as a restraining member or baseplate) may include structures that assist with securing to theseexternal elements, such as grooves, extending surfaces, retaining walls,openings, slots, mechanical connectors and the like. As mentioned above,impact-attenuation members 500 of this type may be provided and used inthe manner that foam columns are provided and used in conventionalfootwear products, such as conventional footwear products available fromNIKE, Inc. of Beaverton, Oreg. under the “SHOX” brand trademark.

-   -   6. Shear Resistant Members Also Including Impact-Attenuating        Characteristics

The example structures described above include separate shear resistantmembers and impact-attenuating members in an overall impact-attenuationmember structure (although at least some of the shear resistant membersalso may perform some impact attenuation functions). This feature is nota requirement in all example structures according to this invention. Forexample, if desired, the impact-attenuating materials may be omittedfrom the structures of FIGS. 1A through 5B and the resulting structurestill may provide impact-attenuation and shear resistance (and lateralstability) characteristics. The features of the shear resistant membermay be selected to provide a desired degree of impact attenuationwithout the need for foam or other impact-attenuating material.Optionally, if desired, a separate impact-attenuating member may beprovide separate from and not directly connected to the shear resistantmember.

FIG. 6 illustrates another example impact-attenuation member structure600 in accordance with at least some examples of this invention in whicha single structure provides both impact-attenuation characteristics andshear resistance characteristics. In this example structure 600, a shearresistant/impact-attenuating body member 602 is provided, made, forexample, of a rigid material, like those described above for shearresistant members 102, 202, 302, 402, and 502. The body member 602 inthis illustrated example is a continuous, single structure substantiallyspheroid or ellipsoid shaped, but two opposing sides of the spheroid orellipsoid have been removed or truncated. Also, a through hole 604 isdefined between the truncated opposing sides (or alternatively, thetruncated opposing sides provide access to a hollow interior structureof the spheroid or ellipsoid member). If desired, the hole 604 need notextend completely through the body member 602 (e.g., it may extend fromeach truncated side wall and stop near the center of the body member).

When mounted in an article of footwear, the structure 600 may provideboth impact-attenuating and shear resistance properties. Morespecifically, because of the open structure (e.g., including throughhole 604 in this illustrated example), the rigid material of the bodymember 602 may flex somewhat in response to vertical forces and/orforces experienced when landing a step or jump. Additionally, because ofthe wide opposing wall structures 606 present in the footwearside-to-side direction, lateral stability and resistance to lateral orshear forces are provided (e.g., to provide stability when a wearerquickly stops, cuts, or changes directions in the shoe).

Various other example features of structures in accordance with thisinvention are illustrated in FIG. 6. While these features are describedand discussed above in conjunction with the example structure 600illustrated in FIG. 6, those skilled in the art will appreciate thatsome or all of these various features also may be used in conjunctionwith other impact-attenuation member structures without departing fromthis invention, including, for example, the various structures describedabove in conjunction with FIGS. 1A through 5B.

FIG. 6 illustrates that the overall impact-attenuation member furthermay include a restraining member 610 that surrounds or at leastpartially surrounds the body member 602. In this example device, therestraining member 610 may be spheroid, ellipsoid, cylindrical, orring-shaped and configured such that it entirely covers and contains theopenings 604 but leaves the wall member 602 exposed at its top and/orbottom. This restraining element 610 may be made from a flexible orsomewhat flexible polymeric material, e.g., a urethane material or othermaterial flexible under application of force (e.g., in the substantiallyvertical direction and/or from landing a step and/or jump), but returnsto substantially its original shape and orientation when the force issufficiently relaxed or relieved.

Restraining elements 610, in at least some examples of the invention,potentially may perform several functions. First, in at least someexamples, the restraining element 610 may help prevent mud, dirt, orother debris or foreign material from entering the through hole 604 ofthe wall member 602 and potentially weighing down or damaging thedevice. Additionally, the restraining element 610 may attenuate some ofthe compressive force to which the impact-attenuation device 600 isexposed during use, which can help alleviate stress and/or strain on theimpact-attenuation member 600. As another example, if desired,restraining element 610 may function as a stopper to prevent theimpact-attenuation member 600 from excessively deforming in somedirections under the applied compressive force (which again can helpalleviate stress and/or strain on the impact-attenuation member 600). Asstill another example, portions of the restraining element 610 sidewalls may exert an inward force on the impact-attenuation member 600,thereby helping to return the impact-attenuation member 600 to itsoriginal orientation (or back to substantially its originalorientation). Such spring back action, in at least some instances, canhelp improve the wearer's performance by providing a reflexive force tohelp recover from the exerted compressive force.

Of course, the restraining element 610 can take on any size,configuration, arrangement, or orientation without departing from theinvention. For example, the restraining element 610 need not completelycover the openings 604. Additionally or alternatively, the restrainingelement 610 may fit somewhat loosely around the outside of the bodymember 602 when no compressive force is applied to the device 600 andthen stop or help slow the flexure of the body member 602 and/orcompression of impact-attenuation member 600 when the force is applied.As another alternative, the restraining element 610 may fit rathertightly around the outside of the impact-attenuation member 600 when nocompressive force is applied to the member 600 to provide a stifferoverall impact-attenuation member. Additionally, the restraining element610 need not completely surround the impact-attenuation member 600(e.g., gaps, openings, or the like may be provided, the restrainingelement 610 may be C-shaped, etc., without departing from theinvention). As still another potential alternative, the restrainingelement 610 may be made from more than one individual piece withoutdeparting from the invention (e.g., the restraining element 610 mayconstitute two or more C-shaped pieces that can clip around theimpact-attenuation member 600).

FIG. 6 illustrates still additional potential features ofimpact-attenuation member structures in accordance with this invention.As illustrated, the body member 602 includes retaining elements 612 atits top and bottom surfaces that can be used to help mount the bodymember 602 to another device. The retaining elements 612 may engage withappropriately shaped openings, recesses, or grooves 614 provided inanother device (such as a base plate member 616 for a heel unit for anarticle of footwear) to help hold the body member 602 in place withrespect to the other device. Of course, any size, number, shape, and/ororientation of retaining elements 612 and corresponding openings,recesses, or grooves 614 may be used without departing from thisinvention. As another alternative, if desired, the body member 602 mayinclude the opening(s), groove(s), or recess(es) 614 and the otherdevice (e.g., base plate 616) may include the projecting retainingelements 612. As still another alternative, if desired, each of the bodymember 602 and the other device may include a combination of openings614 and retaining structures 612 that fit into correspondingcomplementary structures 612 or openings 614 provided in the matingdevice. Of course, additional ways of engaging the body member 602 withanother device (such as a base plate 616) may be used without departingfrom this invention, such as adhesives or cements; fusing techniques;mechanical connectors; and the like. Such additional ways may be used inplace of or in combination with the retaining element 612/opening 614structures described above.

Also, if desired, the impact-attenuation member 600 of FIG. 6 may beused in combination with a separate impact-attenuating member, e.g.,made of materials like those described above for elements 104, 204 a,204 b, 304, 404, and 504. The impact-attenuating member, when present,may be included inside opening 604, around the wall member 602, and/orseparate from and optionally not directly connected to wall member 602,without departing from this invention.

Also, if desired, one or more impact-attenuation members 600 may beattached to one or more external elements, such as base plate structures616 or other footwear or foot-receiving device members, e.g., so as toprovide a “heel” unit or “heel cage” 650 that may be incorporated intoan article of footwear or other foot-receiving device product. Ofcourse, any number of impact-attenuation members 600 may be included inthe overall structure without departing from the invention, in anydesired arrangement or orientation, and not each impact-attenuationmember in a given heel unit 650 need have the same or similarstructures. Also, while a single base plate structure 616 is shown inFIG. 6 (located at the bottom of the structure 650), those skilled inthe art will appreciate that an upper plate member also may be includedwithout departing from this invention. As mentioned above,impact-attenuation members 600 of this type may be provided and used inthe manner that foam columns are provided and used in conventionalfootwear products, such as conventional footwear products available fromNIKE, Inc. of Beaverton, Oreg. under the “SHOX” brand trademark.

-   -   7. Footwear Structures

As described above, impact-attenuation members of the various typesdescribed above may be incorporated into footwear structures and otherfoot-receiving device products. FIG. 7 illustrates an example footwearproduct 700 in which shear resistant impact-attenuation members inaccordance with examples of this invention (e.g., members 100, 200, 300,400, 500, and/or 600) are mounted. The article of footwear, which may bean article of athletic footwear, includes an upper member 702 and a solestructure 704 engaged with the upper member 702. The sole structure 704may be engaged with the upper member 702 in any desired manner,including in conventional manners known and used in the art, such as byadhesives or cements; fusing techniques; mechanical connectors;stitching or sewing; and the like. Also, the upper member 702 and solestructure 704 may be made of any desired materials in any desiredconstructions, including with conventional materials and conventionalconstructions as are known and used in the art, including, for example,the conventional materials and constructions used for conventionalfootwear products available from NIKE, Inc. of Beaverton, Oreg. Whilethe example structure 700 of FIG. 7 illustrates the impact-attenuationmembers 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600 in the heel area of an article offootwear 700, those skilled in the art will appreciate that such membersmay be included at any desired location(s) in a footwear 700 orfoot-receiving device structure, including, for example, in the forefootportion. Also, any number, arrangement, and/or style ofimpact-attenuation members 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600 may be includedin a footwear structure without departing from this invention, includingcombinations of different types of impact-attenuation members.

Also, while the illustrated footwear structure 700 shows theimpact-attenuation members 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600 open andexposed, those skilled in the art will recognize, of course, that theimpact-attenuation members 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600 may be covered(e.g., embedded within a midsole or other portion of the sole orfoot-supporting structure, enclosed in a gas-filled bladder (e.g., anair-filled bladder), which also may perform impact-attenuatingfunctions, etc., without departing from this invention.

-   -   8. Other Potential Features and Constructions

Of course, the above description and the various structures illustratedand discussed above merely constitute examples of structures andfeatures in accordance with this invention. A wide variety ofmodifications, changes, and/or alternative structures and combination offeatures are possible without departing from this invention. Oneadditional example of a potential modification to the various examplesdescribed above relates to the materials for the shear resistant member.As described above, in at least some examples of this invention, theshear resistant material may be enclosed within or encompassed by theimpact-attenuating foam (or other) material. As another example, ifdesired, the shear resistant material may be provided in the form offibers embedded within the impact-attenuating material and oriented inthe shear direction (e.g., oriented a horizontal, lateral side-to-medialside direction in a footwear structure) to inhibit shear (e.g., maintainlateral stability against shear forces) while still allowing verticalcollapse or deflection. As still another example, if desired, carbonfiber (or other fiber) composites may be used as the shear resistantmember (e.g., with the carbon fibers oriented in the shear direction(e.g., a horizontal, lateral side-to-medial side direction in a footwearstructure) to inhibit shear (e.g., maintain lateral stability againstshear forces) while still allowing vertical collapse or deflection).Other materials also may be used for the shear resistant member and/orthe impact-attenuating member without departing from the invention.

E. Conclusion

While the invention has been described with respect to specific examplesincluding presently preferred modes of carrying out the invention, thoseskilled in the art will appreciate that there are numerous variationsand permutations of the above described systems and methods. Thus, thespirit and scope of the invention should be construed broadly as setforth in the appended claims.

1. An impact-attenuation member, comprising: an impact-attenuatingmember; and a shear resistant member engaged with the impact-attenuatingmember and including plural wall slats; wherein the shear resistantmember allows bending or compression against impact forces in a firstdirection and is stable against shear forces in a second directiondifferent from the first direction.
 2. The impact-attenuation memberaccording to claim 1, the impact-attenuating member includes pluralindependent elements.
 3. The impact-attenuation member according toclaim 1, wherein the impact-attenuating member includes plural slatelements.
 4. The impact-attenuation member according to claim 3, whereinthe shear resistant wall slats are arranged between theimpact-attenuating member slat elements in an alternating manner.
 5. Theimpact-attenuation member according to claim 1, wherein theimpact-attenuating member and the shear resistant member form animpact-attenuation member having a columnar or cylindrical structure. 6.The impact-attenuation member according to claim 1, wherein at least oneslat element includes a first major surface and a second major surfaceopposite the first major surface, wherein the slat element has athickness extending between the first major surface and the second majorsurface such that the slat element will bend when subjected to apredetermined load in a predetermined direction.
 7. Theimpact-attenuation member according to claim 1, wherein the shearresistant member and the impact-attenuating member cooperate to providea controlled degree of compression in a substantially verticaldirection.
 8. The impact-attenuation member according to claim 1,wherein the presence of the shear resistant member allows theimpact-attenuation member to withstand at least a 25% greater shearforce without roll-over or collapse as compared to theimpact-attenuating member alone.
 9. The impact-attenuation memberaccording to claim 1, wherein the presence of the shear resistant memberallows the impact-attenuation member to withstand at least a 50% greatershear force without roll-over or collapse as compared to theimpact-attenuating member alone.
 10. The impact-attenuation memberaccording to claim 1, wherein the shear resistant member includes atleast one major surface, wherein at least one line parallel to andlocated on the major surface extends in the second direction.
 11. Anarticle of footwear comprising: an upper member; and a sole memberengaged with the upper member, wherein the sole member includes animpact-attenuation member comprising: an impact-attenuating member; anda shear resistant member engaged with the impact-attenuating member andincluding and including plural wall slats; wherein the shear resistantmember allows bending or compression against impact forces in asubstantially vertical direction and is stable against shear forces in asubstantially lateral direction.
 12. The article of footwear accordingto claim 11, the impact-attenuating member includes plural independentelements.
 13. The article of footwear according to claim 11, wherein theimpact-attenuating member includes plural slat elements.
 14. The articleof footwear according to claim 13, wherein the shear resistant wallslats are arranged between the impact-attenuating member slat elementsin an alternating manner.
 15. The article of footwear according to claim11, wherein at least one slat element includes a first major surface anda second major surface opposite the first major surface, wherein theslat element has a thickness extending between the first major surfaceand the second major surface such that the slat element will bend whensubjected to a predetermined load in a predetermined direction.
 16. Thearticle of footwear according to claim 11, wherein theimpact-attenuating member and the shear resistant member form animpact-attenuation member having a columnar or cylindrical structure.17. The article of footwear according to claim 11, wherein the shearresistant member and the impact-attenuating member cooperate to providea controlled degree of compression in the substantially verticaldirection.
 18. The article of footwear according to claim 11, whereinthe presence of the shear resistant member allows the impact-attenuationmember to withstand at least a 25% greater shear force without roll-overor collapse as compared to the impact-attenuating member alone.
 19. Thearticle of footwear according to claim 11, wherein the presence of theshear resistant member allows the impact-attenuation member to withstandat least a 50% greater shear force without roll-over or collapse ascompared to the impact-attenuating member alone.
 20. The article offootwear according to claim 11, wherein the shear resistant memberincludes at least one major surface, wherein at least one line parallelto and located on the major surface extends in the substantially lateraldirection.